Celebrating Legacy, Inspiring Futures: The 2022 Freedom Gate Alumni Gathering
In October 2022, Freedom Gate brought together its dynamic network of alumni for a three-day retreat of reflection, learning, and vision-building at the Lahore Country Club in Muridke. This much-anticipated gathering served as a heartfelt celebration of shared history, intellectual exchange, and future collaboration among more than 50 change-makers who have been part of Freedom Gate’s initiatives over the years. With the theme “75 Candles of Hope – Let’s Light Many More,” the event honored Pakistan’s 75 years of independence and the 70th anniversary of Pak-German diplomatic ties while carving out a space for dialogue on transformation, leadership, and innovation.
Day One: Reconnecting and Reimagining
The opening evening on October 28 began with a warm welcome by Ms. Birgit Lamm followed by introductory sessions led by Aamir Amjad and Aniqa Arshad, who facilitated an engaging icebreaker titled “Getting to Know Each Other.” A particularly moving session followed: “75 Candles of Hope – چراغ سے چراغ جلے,” a reflective plenary by Zafarullah Khan, which acknowledged past efforts and inspired alumni to carry the light of hope and action into the future.
In a special segment, the new alumni cohort was welcomed by Mian Imran Masood, Mohsin Leghari, and Jami Chandio, who commended the diverse journeys of participants and reinforced the network’s commitment to democratic development, inclusion, and sustainability.
Day Two: Ideas for Impact and Economic Transformation
The second day commenced with breakfast and energizing team-building activities led by Anjabeen Soomro and Usman Latif. In the opening note, Ms. Birgit Lamm reflected on Freedom Gate’s enduring mission to support democratic dialogue, civic education, and economic empowerment across Pakistan.
The day’s keynote moment was the anticipated address by His Excellency Mr. Alfred Grannas, German Ambassador to Pakistan, commemorating 70 years of Pak-German friendship and bilateral cooperation. His remarks were followed by a powerful keynote from Governor of Punjab, Muhammad Baligh Ur Rehman, who paid tribute to the alumni’s impact on civic and community development.
A highlight of the program was the panel discussion titled “Economic Transformation 2.0: Poverty Alleviation and Creating Prosperity,” moderated by Mueen Batalay. The panel explored Pakistan’s economic challenges and future pathways, with requested contributions from key representatives of the IMF, World Bank, ADB, and EU Delegation, and confirmed participation from Senator Mohsin Leghari, Minister of Finance, Punjab.
Following the policy-rich morning, the Open Space session gave alumni freedom to network, share experiences, and generate collective energy. The evening concluded with a vibrant World Café where participants brainstormed grant proposals across four key themes:
- Market Economy (GSP+, Trade)
- Good Governance
- Freedom of Expression and Information
- Individual Rights & Socioeconomic Development
A cultural night and semi-casual reception dinner closed the day with music, dance, and reflection.
Day Three: Alumni Voices and Visions for 2023
October 30 opened with Zafarullah Khan’s creative recap of the previous day, setting a thoughtful tone for alumni presentations on their 2022 initiatives. Moderated by Muhammad Anwar, speakers included Asma Aamir, Ross Mahtani, Syed Amir Hameed, and Farhan Anwar, who shared their work on development, minority rights, education, and urban planning.
The next session, “What Our Alumni Want to Do in 2023,” invited 1-minute elevator pitches from participants, followed by voting on the most impactful ideas. Selected pitches were then refined and presented in final form—a true showcase of collaborative innovation.
The retreat concluded with closing remarks by Ms. Birgit Lamm, celebrating the spirit of civic engagement that unites the Freedom Gate alumni family. Participants departed not just with fond memories but with renewed energy, actionable plans, and a deeper sense of purpose.
Key Takeaways and Forward Momentum
A Living Network: The alumni community continues to thrive as a living, growing network of professionals committed to social, political, and economic change.
Shared Ownership: From governance and human rights to climate and trade, the alumni demonstrated deep ownership of the country’s core challenges.
Platform for Innovation: The World Café and grant pitching platforms reflected Freedom Gate’s commitment to funding grassroots innovation led by alumni.
Pak-German Synergy: The event reinforced the strength of Pakistan’s long-standing partnership with Germany, grounded in mutual respect and shared democratic values.
Lighting the Way Forward
The 2022 Freedom Gate Alumni Gathering was more than a reunion—it was a celebration of leadership, resilience, and shared purpose. In a world beset by economic, environmental, and civic challenges, Freedom Gate’s alumni are not just spectators but architects of change. With ideas illuminated and connections deepened, the event reaffirmed the power of community to shape a freer, fairer, and more prosperous Pakistan.
